"Greater energy and greater passion is more extraordinary than greater genius."

Lt. General Arjun Ray, PVSM, VSM (Retd)

About Ladakh

Immediately after assuming command of the military forces in Ladakh, Lt. Gen Arjun Ray (Retd) carved out a careful analysis of the prevailing socio-political and security situation. Incipient conditions of militancy were staring in the face, alienation of about half the population was complete and more rallies for 'azadi' (independence) were a common phenomenon. Insurgency had spread to every region of Jammu and Kashmir, and it was only a matter of 'when' and not 'if' that insurgency would spill over in to Ladakh.

As a result, Lt. Gen Arjun Ray (Retd) decided that the only way to prevent conflict was by winning over the alienated communities along the Line of Control. This was the genesis of Operation Sadbhavna (Goodwill), a socio-politico strategy which aimed at integrating the population with the nation's mainstream.

Going by his belief that human development is essential for effective border management and conflict prevention, Lt. Gen Arjun Ray (Retd) identified five major areas, including primary education, health care, women's empowerment, information technology and community development.